BMW's M135i hot hatch. Image: BMW AG
BMW’s M Performance line was announced last month, and so far the sub-brand’s focus has been on turbodiesels. That changes with the Geneva debut of the M135i hatchback concept, which, for the record, we want very, very badly to see in the United States. We’re fans of the hatchback, and we question the automakers’ assumption that “Americans won’t buy hatchbacks.” We say they will, especially when they come packaged as nicely as the M135i.
BMW's M135i hot hatch. Image: BMW AG
We like the aggressive 19-inch M-branded wheels, and we appreciate the M Performance striping down the side and on the hatch. We’re confident that the M-tuned suspension will meet out expectations, as will the Twin Power Turbo 3.0-liter inline six under the hood. BMW says the engine is good for “more than” 300 horsepower, which should prove to be plenty entertaining in a car with the M135i’s dimensions.
BMW's M135i hot hatch. Image: BMW AG
It’s very likely that BMW will build and market this car in Europe, but it’s hatchback layout makes it a long shot for the U.S. market. We hope we’re wrong on this, because the car, if priced right, has tremendous potential to bring new buyers into the BMW brand. Last year’s 1-Series M was priced beyond the reach of enthusiasts on a budget, but the M135i doesn’t have to be. We say build it, and bring it to this side of the pond; as long as the car isn’t optioned out with things we don’t need (like leather seating or an automatic climate control) our checkbooks are ready and able to throw down a deposit.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
